JOHN BELLAMY LEICESTER CHILD MOLESTER CONVICTED IN WORCESTER COURT
In a case that has sent shockwaves through the community, John Bellamy, a 72-year-old former choirmaster from Leicester, has been found guilty of multiple sexual offenses committed decades ago.The conviction stems from allegations that he sexually assaulted five boys aged between nine and 14 during the 1970s, while he was serving as the choirmaster at St James the Greater Church located on London Road in Worcester.
Bellamy's criminal activities came to light after a lengthy investigation initiated in 2013, when a former choir member came forward with concerns about Bellamy's inappropriate behavior towards him and other boys during their time as choir boys in the mid to late 1970s.
This initial disclosure prompted police to delve deeper into the allegations, leading to the identification of additional victims who subsequently provided evidence against Bellamy.
Following the investigation, Bellamy was charged with six counts of indecent assault and two counts of indecency with a child.
The case was brought before Worcester Crown Court, where Bellamy was tried and convicted.
Yesterday, Judge Michael Cullum sentenced him to two years in prison for each count of indecent assault, and 12 months for each count of indecency with a child.
The sentences are to run concurrently, meaning Bellamy will serve a total of two years in custody.
Additionally, he has been placed on the Sex Offenders Register for a period of ten years.
During the sentencing, Judge Cullum emphasized the profound impact Bellamy's actions had on the victims, stating that his crimes had “gravely affected many lives.” The court heard that Bellamy, who resides on Kingsmead Road in Leicester, had carried out these offenses while working in various educational establishments across Leicester and the surrounding areas until his retirement in 1995.
Detective Constable Jamie Carr, the lead investigator in the case, expressed concern that Bellamy might have committed further offenses during his career.
He urged anyone who might have been victimized or who recognized Bellamy’s photograph to come forward.
Detective Carr emphasized the importance of reporting such crimes, especially when they occurred many years ago, and assured the public that their concerns would be taken seriously.
Support and guidance are available through specialist officers and various agencies to assist victims through the process.
Bellamy’s conviction marks a significant step in addressing historical abuse cases, and authorities hope it will encourage other victims to come forward.
The police have urged anyone with information to contact Leicestershire Police at 101.
The case underscores the importance of vigilance and the ongoing efforts to bring justice to those affected by abuse, regardless of how much time has passed since the offenses occurred.
